Tag

Respiratoryillness

All articles tagged with #respiratoryillness

health2 years ago

"Surge in 'Tripledemic' Risk as Coinfections Rise with Covid, Flu, and RSV Nationwide"

The CDC has reported an 18% increase in influenza cases and a rise in respiratory illnesses nationwide, with 21 states and New York City experiencing "very high" levels of sickness. Hospital admissions for COVID have increased by 20%, and RSV cases are also on the rise. The data, which is based on symptoms reported to healthcare facilities rather than lab-confirmed cases, suggests that the flu season has not yet reached its peak, which is historically in February. The CDC estimates at least 10 million illnesses, 110,000 hospitalizations, and 6,500 deaths from the flu this season, including 27 pediatric fatalities.

health2 years ago

"Illinois Faces Surge in COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations Across Multiple Counties"

Northern Illinois counties are experiencing a rise in COVID-19 hospital admissions, with four counties at high risk and others at medium or low risk. The state is also facing high levels of respiratory illnesses, including the flu and RSV. Health officials are advising increased precautions, especially in high-risk areas, and emphasizing the importance of vaccinations as hospitalizations and deaths increase. Less than a quarter of the population in many areas is up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations.

health2 years ago

"Surge in Respiratory Illnesses Nationwide as Experts Urge Vaccinations Ahead of Festive Season"

The CDC has reported an 18% increase in influenza positivity and a rise in respiratory illness symptoms nationwide, with 21 states and New York City experiencing "very high" levels of sickness. Hospital admissions for COVID have also increased by 20%, and RSV cases are on the rise. Despite the growing numbers, the peak of flu season is expected in February, and current data may not fully capture the extent of the illnesses, as it is based on symptoms reported to healthcare facilities rather than lab-confirmed cases. The CDC estimates at least 10 million illnesses, 110,000 hospitalizations, and 6,500 deaths this flu season, including 27 pediatric fatalities.

health2 years ago

"Surge in Respiratory Illnesses Sweeps U.S. Post-Holidays"

Post-holiday gatherings have led to a surge in respiratory illnesses in the U.S., with influenza cases driving hospitalizations and COVID-19 levels expected to rise. Health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination, with less than half of U.S. adults having received a flu shot and under 20% a COVID-19 booster. Hospitals are reinstating mask mandates in some areas, and the CDC recommends early testing and treatment, as well as continued use of preventive measures like masking to combat the spread of these viruses.

health2 years ago

"Rising COVID-19 Trends Across US Detected in Wastewater and Winter Illness Warnings"

Santa Clara County is experiencing a surge in respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, influenza, and RSV, with wastewater data showing high levels of these viruses. Despite a high initial vaccination rate, only about 20% of the county's population is up to date on their COVID vaccines, with lower rates among Latino and African American communities. Health officials emphasize the importance of vaccinations and preventative measures like masking and covering coughs to combat the seasonal spike in illnesses.

health2 years ago

"Rising RSV Cases and Fatalities Alarm Wisconsin"

Wisconsin is experiencing a significant rise in RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) cases and related deaths among children, particularly those under five years old. One mother shared her harrowing experience with her 18-month-old son, who has been hospitalized three times due to RSV. Health officials, including Dr. Kevin Dahlman of Aurora Children’s Health, are on high alert as the state faces a shortage of monoclonal antibody treatments, which are available for children younger than eight months. While there is no vaccine for RSV, health officials recommend flu and COVID-19 vaccinations to help protect children.

health2 years ago

"Amid Tripledemic Surge, Health Officials Advocate for Masks and Vaccines"

The Maryland Department of Health is urging increased protective measures, including universal masking and vaccination, in response to a rise in hospitalizations from respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19, influenza, and RSV. The department advises clinicians to implement broad prevention strategies and reminds the public to practice good hygiene and get vaccinated to help reduce the spread of these illnesses. Despite a recent decrease in the combined weekly hospitalization rate, the state continues to monitor COVID-19 data, with new cases and deaths still being reported in the new year.

health2 years ago

"Triple Threat: Rising Cases of Flu, COVID, and RSV Overwhelm NJ Hospitals"

Louisville doctors are reporting a rise in cases of a mysterious respiratory illness characterized by a severe cough and other symptoms like fatigue and sore throat, which is not related to COVID-19, flu, or RSV. Despite testing, the cause remains unknown, though it's suspected to be a common virus. The illness appears to be contagious for about a week, and while difficult to diagnose, doctors recommend rest, hydration, and over-the-counter treatments, as well as avoiding public spaces and wearing a mask if symptomatic.

health2 years ago

"BHS Updates Health Protocols with Renewed Mask Mandate and Visitor Rules"

Berkshire Health Systems (BHS) in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, has reinstated mandatory masking for staff, patients, and visitors due to a surge in respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19. The new policy, which also includes updated visitation guidelines, affects various BHS facilities and will commence on January 3. This decision follows a period of relaxed measures after the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in May. Regular reviews of these guidelines are planned to ensure community safety.

health2 years ago

"Rising Respiratory Illnesses: Understanding the Surge in RSV and COVID-19"

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) remains a significant health concern in the U.S., with elevated activity and hospitalization rates, particularly among young children and older adults. While nearly all children contract RSV by age 2, new treatment options like Beyfortus and the first RSV vaccine for pregnant women, Abrysvo, have been approved by the FDA. Despite these advancements, health experts advise continued vigilance with infection-control measures to minimize risk during the RSV season.

health2 years ago

"Unraveling the Mystery of the Persistent 100-Day Cough Epidemic"

New York is experiencing a widespread coughing issue, with many seeking remedies for persistent coughs that are not necessarily related to contagious diseases. Health experts emphasize that coughing is a protective reflex and can be caused by various factors, including viruses, environmental triggers, and underlying conditions like asthma or GERD. Chronic cough is particularly prevalent among women, and the public is advised to practice good cough etiquette. While there is no clear consensus on effective cough treatments, recommendations range from hydration and nasal rinses to avoiding over-the-counter cough suppressants in favor of natural remedies like honey, ginger, and lemon.

health2 years ago

"Mask Mandates Reemerge in Healthcare Facilities Across Major US Cities"

UMass Memorial Medical Center is reinstating a mask mandate for employees and strongly encouraging masks for visitors due to rising respiratory illness rates, including COVID-19. The policy, starting Tuesday, will be in place for about a month and reassessed based on illness trends. This move aligns with other Massachusetts hospitals like Beth Israel Lahey and Mass General Brigham, which are also bringing back mask requirements.

health2 years ago

"Flu Activity Surges in U.S. with South Carolina Among Hardest Hit States"

The CDC reports a significant increase in flu activity across most of the U.S., with a 16% rise in positive influenza tests last week. Outpatient respiratory illness rates are above the national baseline for the eighth week in a row. The current flu season has seen 875 viruses reported by public health labs and a total of 20 pediatric deaths. States like Alabama, Georgia, and New York are experiencing "very high" levels of respiratory illness, with nearly 20 other states at "high" levels.

health2 years ago

"Winter Illness Surge: Navigating the Maze of RSV, Flu, COVID, and More"

The CDC reports a significant increase in respiratory illnesses, including influenza, COVID-19, and RSV, as the 2023 holiday season concludes. Thirteen states and New York City are experiencing "very high" levels, with seven states at the highest tier of illness spread. The data, which may include other respiratory illnesses and potentially underreport estimated cases, is based on symptoms reported to healthcare facilities rather than lab-confirmed cases. The flu has been particularly deadly this season, with an estimated 4,500 deaths, including 20 children.